The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed a bold new policy change that will lower the minimum age to become a train driver from 20 to 18, in an effort to combat the increasing number of last-minute train cancellations across the United Kingdom.
In a move that could reshape the future of rail travel in Britain, the government has announced a significant shift in the recruitment age for train drivers. Eighteen-year-olds will now be eligible to begin training and operate trains—a decision driven by escalating labour shortages and a rising number of service disruptions.
87% of cancellations caused by lack of available drivers
The figures speak for themselves. According to the latest data, nearly 90% of cancellations made the night before departure are due to driver unavailability. This chronic staffing issue is creating bottlenecks throughout the railway system, significantly affecting commuters and economic productivity with an urgent need to sort out the rail chaos. The problem is further compounded by an ageing workforce, with the average British train driver now aged 48. Alarmingly, 30% of current drivers are expected to reach retirement age within the next four years.
The rail industry has long depended on drivers voluntarily working additional shifts to maintain services. However, with a shrinking pool of available labour and growing public frustration over delays, ministers have opted for a strategy that opens the door to the next generation of rail professionals.
Consultation confirms industry-wide backing
The policy follows a public consultation held last year, where the DfT said there was “overwhelming support” from key industry stakeholders to reduce the minimum age, similar to the proposals for lowering the age requirements for bus, lorry and coach drivers. The government believes that encouraging 18-year-olds to pursue a career in the rail sector straight from school or college will create a stable pipeline of new talent, reduce reliance on overtime, and safeguard service reliability.
Speaking on the change, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated:
“We are future-proofing our railways to prevent delays and cancellations caused by a shortage of drivers. By opening this profession to younger people, we’re offering meaningful careers while strengthening the backbone of our transport network.”
Safety standards to remain unchanged
Despite the reduced entry age, the DfT has assured the public that safety remains paramount. The Rail Safety and Standards Board has supported the move, citing research indicating that 18-year-olds are fully capable of safely operating trains when provided with the appropriate training and supervision.
The rigorous training programme for mainline rail drivers—typically spanning between 12 and 24 months—will remain in place, with no reduction in assessment or qualification standards.
This development mirrors similar policies across Europe. Countries such as Germany, France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands already permit 18-year-olds to drive trains. In fact, Transport for London made a comparable shift back in 2007, when it opened its Underground driver apprenticeship schemes to 18-year-olds.
New opportunities coming soon
The Department for Transport has hinted that the first wave of apprenticeships and job postings for 18-year-old applicants could open as early as December this year. This announcement is expected to generate significant interest among school leavers and college graduates eager to enter a sector known for its strong earning potential and long-term career prospects.
Industry experts are optimistic that this change will attract a younger and more diverse railway workforce, revitalising an industry grappling with generational turnover. It also represents a timely response to the demands of modern infrastructure and the evolving expectations of commuters.
The Workers Union Says…
“As the rail sector modernises and expands, bringing younger workers into the fold could provide long-term solutions to systemic staffing issues—provided the necessary support, mentorship, safety, and investment in training are upheld.”
